News 17:00

BULLETIN 1 February 5 pm

Good afternoon. I am……..

In this bulletin:

# The ANC voices concerns over failed plans to sell Madiba’s personal belongings
# The Western Cape requests provincial disaster classification for wildfires 
# And motorsport: Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari is rumoured to be on the cards

# The ANC’s National Executive Committee has expressed deep concern over failed plans to auction off the personal belongings of former president Nelson Mandela. Following the cancellation of the sale, the ANC calls for broader measures to preserve the country’s cultural heritage. At a media briefing, secretary general Fikile Mbalula emphasised 2024 as a crucial year to defend freedom and advance a better life for all:

# The Western Cape government has approached the national disaster management centre, seeking a provincial disaster classification due to multiple wildfires. Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning MEC Anton Bredell says the classification is crucial to empower swift funding allocation for firefighting efforts. He says the hot and windy conditions demand a coordinated response. Bredell urges the public to report fire sightings promptly, as swift responses are critical in controlling wildfires:

Meanwhile, a new evacuation order has been issued for parts of Pringle Bay as a wildfire, initially contained, has rekindled. Firefighters are battling relentlessly, employing both ground teams and aerial resources to control the blaze that has consumed over 800 hectares. This follows previous evacuations in Pringle Bay and Betty’s Bay. Meanwhile, the Buffeljags fire near Swellendam, burning since Monday, remains uncontrolled. Multiple blazes persist in the Cape Winelands, with Wolseley, Brandvlei and Fairy Glen facing challenges. Residents are urged to stay vigilant.

# Five people are still in critical condition in hospital after a hangar collapsed next to an American airfield, killing three people. Another four people were injured during the incident near the Boise Airfield in Idaho. The metal structure was under construction for a business that offers private plane charters and maintenance on the premises, which belongs to the airfield. A crane also fell over after the building collapsed. The airfield wasn’t impacted and authorities have started an investigation into the cause of the incident.

# Motorsport: Formula One has been shaken to the core with the news British ace Lewis Hamilton plans to leave Mercedes at the end of the season and join Ferrari. He is set to replace Spanish driver Carlos Sainz at the Scuderia. The seven-time world champion signed a two-year extension of his contract with the German team last year, but it now seems he could have an escape clause for the second season. Reports suggest negotiations with Ferrari is at an advanced stage after Mercedes’ less favourable results the past two years.

Stay tuned for more news………….